When it comes to fried chicken sandwiches, there’s no denying that crispy and juicy are the two essential components. This fried chicken sandwich recipe is a delightful mash-up of your favorite fast food versions, such as Chick-fil-A and Popeyes, combining all the best flavors and textures into one delicious, homemade sandwich. Whether you’re craving a crunchy bite, tender chicken, or a zesty sauce, this sandwich has it all. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a sandwich that’s destined to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Fried Chicken Sandwich
For the Chicken
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1⅓ pounds)
- 2 cups cold water
- 2 tablespoons plus ¾ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 4 to 6 cups vegetable or peanut oil (for frying)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup milk
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Accent flavor enhancer (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons barbecue sauce
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
For the Sandwich Assembly
- 6 hamburger buns
- Bread-and-butter pickles
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Fried Chicken Sandwich
Step 1: Preparing and Brining the Chicken
To ensure the chicken stays moist and flavorful, we start by brining it. This step is crucial for achieving tender, juicy chicken every time.
- Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast inside a resealable freezer bag or between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even ¼-inch thickness. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and fits perfectly on your sandwich bun.
- Cut the Chicken: Once the chicken is pounded flat, cut each breast in half. If the pieces seem too large to fit in your hamburger buns, feel free to trim the pointy ends. These can be cooked alongside the chicken as chicken nuggets, so nothing goes to waste.
- Brine the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of cold water, 2 tablespoons of salt, and 2 teaspoons of sugar. Whisk until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved. Add the chicken pieces to the brine, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or, for best results, overnight. The brining process enhances the flavor of the chicken and keeps it juicy during frying.
Step 2: Bread and Fry the Chicken
The secret to achieving the perfect crispy coating lies in the breading process. This method ensures a crunchy exterior that sticks to the chicken without being greasy.
- Prepare for Frying: Pour enough vegetable or peanut oil into a large, high-sided pot or Dutch oven to reach a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You’ll know the oil is ready when a small cube of bread sizzles and browns quickly.
- Make the Breading Mixture: In one bowl, whisk together 1 large egg and ½ cup milk. In another medium bowl, whisk the dry ingredients: 1½ cups all-purpose flour, 3 tablespoons cornstarch, 1½ teaspoons baking powder, ¾ teaspoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon Accent flavor enhancer (optional), and 1 teaspoon paprika. This combination gives the breading a light, crispy texture with a slight kick of seasoning.
- Add Clumps to the Breading: Drizzle 4 tablespoons of the egg mixture into the flour mixture and stir with a fork. This creates small clumps that will adhere to the chicken and provide that delicious, crispy texture when fried.
- Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels. One at a time, dip each chicken piece into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, turning it several times to ensure an even coating. Press the flour mixture onto the chicken firmly so the clumps stick. Set the breaded chicken aside on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place a few pieces of breaded chicken into the hot oil, making sure not to crowd the pot. Fry for 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on both sides. Once fried, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining chicken pieces, adjusting the heat as necessary to maintain the oil temperature.
Step 3: Making the Sauce
No fried chicken sandwich is complete without a delicious sauce. This creamy, tangy, and slightly smoky sauce complements the crispy chicken perfectly.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons barbecue sauce, and 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard. This creates a smooth and flavorful sauce that adds a burst of flavor to every bite.
Step 4: Assembling the Sandwiches
Now that your chicken is fried to perfection and your sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the ultimate fried chicken sandwich.
- Toast the Buns: For an extra layer of flavor, toast your hamburger buns lightly in a dry skillet or on the grill until they’re golden brown. This step adds texture and prevents the buns from becoming soggy when the chicken and sauce are added.
- Spread the Sauce: Generously spread the prepared sauce on both the top and bottom halves of each bun. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
- Add the Chicken and Pickles: Place a piece of crispy fried chicken on the bottom half of each bun. Top the chicken with a few bread-and-butter pickles for a sweet and tangy crunch.
- Close the Sandwich: Place the top bun over the chicken and serve immediately while the chicken is still hot and crispy.
Tips for the Best Fried Chicken Sandwich
Brining Time Matters
The longer you brine the chicken, the more flavorful and juicy it will be. We recommend brining for at least 4 hours, but if you have time, letting it brine overnight will yield the best results. Be cautious, though – brining for too long can make the chicken overly salty, so stick to the recommended time frame.
Maintain Oil Temperature
Keeping the oil at the right temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy coating. If the oil is too hot, the exterior will burn before the inside is cooked. If it’s too cold, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a deep-frying thermometer to ensure the oil stays around 350°F (175°C).
Use Fresh Ingredients
Freshly ground black pepper, high-quality paprika, and good mayonnaise (such as Hellmann’s or Duke’s) make a noticeable difference in the flavor of the sandwich. Don’t skimp on quality for the best-tasting results.
Customizing Your Sandwich
This fried chicken sandwich recipe is versatile, so feel free to customize it to suit your taste. Swap out the bread-and-butter pickles for dill pickles if you prefer a tangier flavor, or add a slice of cheese for extra richness. You can also experiment with different sauces, like a spicy Sriracha mayo or a honey mustard sauce.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Each fried chicken sandwich delivers a hearty serving of flavor and crunch, but here’s what you can expect in terms of nutritional content:
- Calories: 628
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Sugar: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Sodium: 742mg
- Cholesterol: 114mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make the Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the chicken ahead of time. After frying, let the chicken cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake the chicken in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until crispy and heated through.
What Type of Oil Should I Use for Frying?
We recommend using vegetable oil or peanut oil for frying. Both oils have a high smoke point, making them ideal for deep-frying. Peanut oil also adds a subtle, nutty flavor to the chicken, but vegetable oil works just as well if you prefer a neutral taste.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are slightly fattier and more flavorful than breasts, which can make for an even juicier Fried Chicken Sandwich. Follow the same brining, breading, and frying steps, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the thighs are fully cooked. This can add a rich, succulent twist to your Fried Chicken Sandwich experience.
How Do I Keep the Chicken Crispy?
To keep your Fried Chicken Sandwich crispy, avoid stacking the fried chicken pieces on top of each other after frying. If necessary, place a wire rack over a baking sheet and keep the fried chicken on the rack in a 200°F oven while you finish frying the rest. This method prevents the chicken for your Fried Chicken Sandwich from steaming and becoming soggy, ensuring it stays perfectly crisp.
What Other Toppings Can I Add?
In addition to pickles, you can add a variety of toppings to customize your Fried Chicken Sandwich. Some great options include lettuce, tomato, coleslaw, or even a slice of melted cheese. You can also kick up the flavor of your Fried Chicken Sandwich with spicy toppings like jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
There’s nothing quite like a perfectly crispy fried chicken sandwich with tender, flavorful meat and just the right amount of crunch. By following our detailed recipe, you’ll be able to recreate the best parts of your favorite fast-food sandwiches right at home. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself to a special meal, this sandwich is sure to impress. Give it a try and elevate your sandwich game with this unbeatable recipe!
